Numismatic

1956 Franklin Half Dollar MS-64 PCGS

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This mid-century silver half dollar from 1956 offers an intriguing look at American coinage design, minted in Philadelphia with a silver purity of 90 percent. The coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal and has been certified in Mint State 64 (MS-64) condition, preserving its sharp details and original luster for modern observers to appreciate. The obverse of the coin features a right-facing profile portrait of Benjamin Franklin, designed by John R. Sinnock. Surrounding the famous statesman are the inscriptions of LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, along with the 1956 year of issue. This design departed from the traditional allegorical figures of Liberty, opting instead for a historical American icon. On the reverse, the central focus is the historic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is visible, a design element included to fulfill legal requirements for the denomination. The reverse also bears the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and the face value of HALF DOLLAR, all framed by the name of the issuing nation.